Experience dance from around the world performed at Jacob’s Pillow, a national historic landmark, celebrating its 77th season!

The 2009 Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival season opens on June 20 with the the annual gala, “the best party in the Berkshires,” “A Jazz Happening.” Then it’s on to Spain and the Mujeres and the passion, driving rhythms, and soul of flamenco. From Spain, it’s on to Slovenia with Romeo and Juliet set to the music of Radiohead. Onwards to Taiwan and the humor and poignant humanity of Lafa & Artists.

The season moves from the Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet to France and the evocative production by Groupe Emile Dubois; to David Rousseve/Reality, inspired by dances from India, Indonesia and West Africa.

In the midst of the around the world dance tour, Merce Cunningham Dance Company celebrates its 90th birthday at Jacob’s Pillow.

Back to the tour and Les Grand Ballets Canadiens de Montreal, one of the most significant forces in international ballet today; Ballet Hispanico and its fusion of Latin, classical ballet, and modern dance. And so much more! The whirlwind season runs until August 30.

[This venue may be called The Pillow but you won't be caught napping! Quinn]

Just returned from the international innkeeping conference in Atlanta. Wow! Do those innkeepers ever work hard to keep improving your bed and breakfast experience!

We did take some time out for fun and went to the aquarium. This is probably the third or fourth aquarium I’ve been to, and since the viewing area is quite low for children, I can see the various fish, including sharks! I am always mesmerized. [I also recommend the Maritimes aquarium in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.]

Then on to Coke. They do put on a great exhibit, and you get to sample Coke-owned beverages from around the world. Ellen really seemed to like the carbonated apple drink from China since she kept going back for more! So, if you’re ever in China…

The exhibit was the prelude to the Coke Store. Anything you can think of is available with the Coke logo! They and Disney are the best at branding!

It was weird in Atlanta as we rarely saw people on the street in the heart of downtown. There were some very nice homeless people who greeted me each morning on the closest patch of grass.